Leicester manager Claudio Ranieri has called on Premier League referees to protect Jamie Vardy after predicting his star striker will be a marked man for defenders this season.
Ranieri believes opponents could foul Vardy in an effort to prevent him repeating the heroics of last season, when his 24 goals helped his side to a fairytale title triumph.
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His astonishing season was crucial to Leicester’s success, and Ranieri wants referees to look out for a crude approach from defenders to stopping him during his side’s title defence.
“I hope the referees are very attentive and if there is something wrong they give penalties or free-kicks,” said Ranieri.
Vardy could be joined in the Leicester attack today by Ahmed Musa as the champions begin their season with a lunchtime game at newly-promoted Hull City.
The Nigerian was identified as a possible understudy and long-term replacement for Vardy, but Ranieri believes the pair can operate together and Musa, Leicester’s £16 million record signing, can share the goalscoring burden.
It’s important to have another player who can play in a similar way to Jamie,” said Ranieri.
“Also Musa can play in a wide position, behind Jamie or alongside Jamie.
“It’s important to have a good choice for me so I can choose the first XI line-up and also during the match I can read the match and maybe say ‘I need this kind of player or another’.
“My players must be ready to do what I expect.”
Profile | Jamie Vardy
- Age:
- 29
- Nationality:
- England
- Position:
- Forward
- Current club:
- Leicester City
- Contract expires:
- 2018
- Interested clubs:
- Arsenal
Story so far
With 24 league goals this season Vardy is in the form of his life. He might be the clinical striker Arsenal are looking for as they look to improve next season, but with Leicester in the Champions League after their sensational title Vardy has to weigh up whether it is worth switching clubs this off-season.
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